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What to compare to find the right travel card for you?

Published on June 15th, 2020
  Written by 
Bill Tsouvalas
Bill Tsouvalas is the managing director and a key company spokesperson at Savvy. As a personal finance expert, he often shares his insights on a range of topics, being featured on leading news outlets including News Corp publications such as the Daily Telegraph and Herald Sun, Fairfax Media publications such as the Australian Financial Review, the Seven Network and more. Bill has over 15 years of experience working in the finance industry and founded Savvy in 2010 with a vision to provide affordable and accessible finance options to all Australians. He has built Savvy from a small asset finance brokerage into a financial comparison website which now attracts close to 2 million Aussies per year and was included in the BRW’s Fast 100 in 2015 as one of the fastest-growing companies in the country. He’s passionate about helping Australians make financially savvy decisions and reviews content across the brand to ensure its accuracy. You can follow Bill on LinkedIn.
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How to choose a travel credit card

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Taking the right travel card with you on a trip can be one of the best things that you can do for yourself when going on a trip. With so many cards to choose from that come with different features and amazing perks, it helps to know what to compare to lead you to the right card. Here are 5 handy tips.

Check for the no foreign transaction fee

Since you will be spending most of your time travelling this means that you will need a card that can help you shop conveniently without attracting the 2-3% fee for every purchase. This fee can still be applied even if you are shopping form the comfort of your home online. Check for credit cards that allow you to swipe without attracting a foreign transaction fee such as 28 Degrees Platinum Mastercard. This can make a difference when it comes to paying off your monthly credit card payments.

A card that lets you earn points when you travel

There are various travel incentives that are currently being offered by reward programs. Incentives such as sign up bonuses, return flights, complimentary lounge access, and being able to gain points whenever you foot the bill at partnered restaurants. However, not all credit cards come with such features which is why it is important to compare cards to find one that is suitable for you. A bonus tip is to choose a card that is partnered with airlines and shops that you most likely use.

The interest rate of course

The cards interest rate is important along with the fees and charges that come with it. Before settling on a credit card check its interest rate. Remember to also check other fees and charges that are attached to the card, but most importantly compare your options. This needs to be done in advance so that you can take your time when it comes to finding a card that is suitable for your budget. It can come in handy when you are trying to stick to your travel budget without stepping outside of what you can afford.

Get a card that is globally recognised

There is nothing that can become quickly frustrating when your card is not accepted overseas. Not only can this force you to make a cash withdrawal on your card which can attract a hefty fee from your issuer, but it can also be frustrating trying to convert it to the right currency. Visa and Mastercard's are widely accepted in most international countries. Therefore, it can come in handy to get a card that is affiliated with either Visa or Mastercard.

The annual fee

You wouldn’t want to pay for a packet of luxury chips that come at a high price but is mostly filled with air and a few measly chips at the bottom. So why take out a credit card that comes with an annual fee, but little to no features and benefits? This is where checking and comparing your options can work in your favour. If you find that your current card comes with an annual fee that offers benefits or features that you don’t use or none at all, it is time to reconsider getting a new card.

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This guide provides general information and does not consider your individual needs, finances or objectives. We do not make any recommendation or suggestion about which product is best for you based on your specific situation and we do not compare all companies in the market, or all products offered by all companies. It’s always important to consider whether professional financial, legal or taxation advice is appropriate for you before choosing or purchasing a financial product.

The content on our website is produced by experts in the field of finance and reviewed as part of our editorial guidelines. We endeavour to keep all information across our site updated with accurate information.

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